The effect of affective iconic realism on anonymous interactants' self-disclosure

ABSTRACT

In this paper, we describe progress in research designed to explore the effect of the combination of avatars' visual fidelity and users' anticipated future interaction on self-disclosure in emotionally engaged and synchronous communication. We particularly aim at exploring ways to allow users' self-disclosure while securing their anonymity, even with minimal cues of a virtual human, when users anticipate future interaction. The research investigates users' self-disclosure through measuring their behaviors and feelings of social presence in several dimensions. Design and implementation of the stimulus materials and equipments are complete and data collection has begun.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.2 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
        I.2.11 Distributed Artificial Intelligence
            Subjects: Intelligent agents

Additional Classification:
  J. Computer Applications
  J.4 SOCIAL AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
      Subjects: Psychology

General Terms:
Experimentation

Keywords:
affective behavior, anonymity, anticipated future interaction, avatar realism, contingency, embodied virtual agents, evaluation, nonverbal feedback, rapport, self-disclosure, social presence, virtual humans